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Monday, February 20, 2012

Flight/Space Magazine Interview - Chat With A Cosbolt Pilot

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Flight/Space Magazine. Packed with photos, stories and interviews covering topics of interest to the flying community. Our first interview is with former Cosbolt pilot Byron.

1.) Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? What kind of kid were you?

I’m a pilot, certified on four different spacecraft, and one of the best in the fleet. (At least that’s what my ego keeps telling me.) I grew up on Cassa and spent most of my childhood at a secure learning facility. Hated it. I was labeled a trouble maker with a bad attitude. People kept prying into my mind, trying to figure out what was wrong with me. It helped foster the sparkling personality I have today.

2.) Did you always want to be a pilot?

I just wanted my freedom. When it became apparent I had the aptitude, coordination, and ego to be a pilot, I seized the opportunity.

3.) How tough was the training program? Did you ever think you might just give it up and do something else?

Give up and do what? It was my only option. Didn’t matter how tough the program – I had to finish at the top, damn it.

4.) Tell us about the Cosbolt. What sort of handling characteristics does it have? Are there any new upgrades or new craft on the horizon? (Or is that top secret?)

The Cosbolt is the workhorse of the Cassan fleet and always first into battle. She doesn’t bank like the Darten, but her power is incredible. I haven’t flown one in twenty years, and while I’ve kept track of the changes, I’m not at liberty to discuss them.

5.) Be honest. Do you ever think of yourself as a hero? Ever fear dying in battle?

When I started on this path, I wanted to be a hero. I wanted the glory and honor. When that moment arrived though, it was the furthest thing from my mind. I wasn’t afraid of dying, either. I was just doing what needed to be done. If I died in the process, so be it.

6.) What do the next few months hold in store for you?

Our exploration vessel is en route to the desert planet of Tgren. The Tgrens are a young race and have only recently taken to the skies. Add the discovery of alien ruins and the Tgren’s growing mental powers and this assignment promises to be interesting.

7.) Last, I have to ask this on behalf of an interested portion of our readers; anyone special in your life? Is romance on your screen?

Probably not. I like my privacy, and women are few and far between out here on the fringes of space. Besides, a mate would only complicate my life. I don’t need that right now…

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Author's note: Flight/Space Magazine is a fictional periodical, which I created to showcase the main character in the upcoming book CassaFire by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Below is a full synopsis and details to pre-order.

CassaFire

by Alex J. Cavanaugh

CassaStar was just the beginning…

The Vindicarn War is a distant memory and Byron’s days of piloting Cosbolt fighters are over. He has kept the promise he made to his fallen mentor and friend - to probe space on an exploration vessel. Shuttle work is dull, but it’s a free and solitary existence. The senior officer is content with his life aboard the Rennather.

The detection of alien ruins sends the exploration ship to the distant planet of Tgren. If their scientists can decipher the language, they can unlock the secrets of this device. Is it a key to the Tgren’s civilization or a weapon of unimaginable power? Tensions mount as their new allies are suspicious of the Cassan’s technology and strange mental abilities.

To complicate matters, the Tgrens are showing signs of mental powers themselves; the strongest of which belongs to a pilot named Athee, a woman whose skills rival Byron’s unique abilities. Forced to train her mind and further develop her flying aptitude, he finds his patience strained. Add a reluctant friendship with a young scientist, and he feels invaded on every level. All Byron wanted was his privacy…

Available February 28, 2012

Science fiction - space opera/adventure

Print ISBN 978-0-9827139-4-5, $15.95, 6x9 Trade paperback, 240 pages

EBook ISBN 978-0-9827139-6-9, $4.99, EBook available in all formats

CassaFire is the sequel to Cavanaugh’s first book, CassaStar, an Amazon Top Ten Best Seller:

“…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal

This is so cool. Byron may be the man for me. I'm just saying we have things in common. 1. We both think mates complicate things. 2. He likes space, me too (and I'm a little spacey). 3. He likes to travel. Me TOO !! 4. He likes privacy. You should see my privacy fence.

Thanks everyone! I just got back into town - it was great to see such a nice response to Byron's interview :-)) It looks like Byron's "bad boy" appeal has attracted some female interest...will he discover true love? Will he find trouble, or will it find him...(Cue dramatic musical score)...and which insurance company will he choose, Geico or AllState? Stay tuned for the Catch Fire launch, coming to a blog near you. (Including this one.)

Interviewing a book's character is so creative, and this interview is great! As you know, Alex, "strict" science fiction isn't my thing. But what you did in your first novel drew me in, and I know I'm going to love this second one. I'm going to like the "woman's touch" too. Complications is what I look for in a story!Ann Best, Memoir Author of In the Mirror & Imprisoned

Thank you again, everyone, for taking the time to visit. I haven't responded individually; instead, I've used the time available today to visit your blogs :-)) If I missed you somehow, drop me a line with a link, as a few of you don't have blogs linked to your profile. (Or maybe you don't have a blog.) Glad you're all excited for the CassaFire launch - I'll be participating in the Catch Fire party as well, so stay tuned! Good luck, Alex.

CassaStar and CassaFire appear to be right up my alley, being a F&SF fan from way back. I'll have to palm Jan's Kindle when she's not looking and bring it to work. Thanks for publicizing your work. Both novels look like a thrill of a ride ...